What tool is commonly used to enhance safety during structural collapse rescues?

Thermal imaging cameras are a critical tool used to enhance safety during structural collapse rescues because they allow rescuers to detect heat signatures and locate victims who may be trapped beneath debris. These cameras can see through smoke and darkness, providing a clear view of the environment and identifying signs of life without needing to enter potentially unstable areas.

The ability to visualize hot spots can also help assess the condition of the structure and determine where it might be safe to operate. This technology not only aids in locating victims more effectively but also allows rescuers to make informed decisions about their approach, thereby reducing the risk of further collapses.

In contrast, while rescue ropes, rescue stretchers, and rescue drones can be valuable in specific situations or as part of the rescue operations, they do not provide the same level of situational awareness and victim detection as thermal imaging cameras do in a structural collapse scenario.